In a world where smartphones dominate the mobile device market, there seems to be a growing trend of people opting for traditional flip or slide phones, also known as “feature phones.”
These devices, which were popular in the early 2000s, have resurfaced as people seek to reduce their screen time and improve their mental health.
According to Counterpoint Research, almost 80% of feature phone sales in 2022 came from the Middle East, Africa, and India, but the trend is also gaining popularity in other regions. In the US, feature flip phone sales were up in 2022 for companies like HMD Global, with tens of thousands sold monthly.
While HMD’s global feature phone sales were down, some experts believe the trend will also catch on in North America. Companies like Punkt and Light are catering to this trend by selling minimalist phones aimed at those who desire to spend less time on their phones and social media.
The rise of dumb phones reflects a growing concern about the negative effects of excessive screen time on mental health. As people seek to balance their tech usage, companies cater to this trend by offering devices that allow users to be more intentional about how and when they use technology.
While it remains to be seen how widespread the trend will become, it’s clear that there is a growing demand for mobile devices that offer a respite from the constant bombardment of notifications and social media.